Once you go Lake Como, you never go back. Just ask George and Amal Clooney, who religiously decamp to their Italian villa each summer. They’re clearly onto something, and you should be too. These are the hotspots you need on your Lake Como list.

Don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of beach ideas all summer, but we’re in a mountain frame of mind this week. Part of the reason is that we know you’ll travel anywhere for food, even if that entails climbing a mountain for it. These spots are worth it for those views and the gourmet delight that awaits you at the top.

There are some pairings that will just always go better together. One of those pairings is a serving of apple strudel and a fantastic view of the Alps. The best place to experience it is in a mountain hut restaurant. Here are a few of our favorites that we know you’ll enjoy, too.

SanBrite

Michelin-starred SanBrite combines luxury with tradition, in the most delicious way. Chef Riccardo Gaspari serves traditional Italian cuisine with an innovative twist. You can find dishes like trout and spaghetti pino mugo on the tasting menu, each with a wine pairing. If you prefer to dine outdoors, you may do so with SanBrite’s Mobile Kitchen, which allows you to enjoy the incredible views while you eat.

Rauchhütte

Rauchhütte is situated on Alpe di Siusi and allows you to eat dinner while enjoying an unbeatable view of the mountains. It is the place to go for Italian, German, Austrian, and Mediterranean cuisine, all in one. The menu will satisfy both meat-lovers and vegetarians. There is also an extensive wine list, in case you’d like to try a unique red or white wine during your visit.

Jimmi Hütte

Jimmi Hütte is situated by the ski slopes, in case you’re looking for a restaurant with a spectacular view. The restaurant staff takes pride in their attention to detail. You can order both classic and modern meals, each one a work of art. Jimmi Hütte serves Italian and German dishes, making a point of incorporating unique flavors into each meal.

Tierser Alpl

Tierser Alpl is a family business in which the youngest son, Willi, is also the head chef. The owners of Tierser Alpl describe the food as “Tyrolean cuisine with a Mediterranean touch.” The ingredients used are local and many come from the owners’ very own garden.  Tierser Alpl staff take both presentation and taste very seriously. The drink menu includes several types of beer, Helles, red and white wines, and homemade elderberry, mint, and ginger juices that the hut is particularly known for.

Plattkofelhütte Rifugio Sasso Piatto

Plattkofelhütte is located on the beautiful Alpe di Siusi. It is an excellent place to find classic South Tyrolean food. You can order dishes like Schlutzkrapfen ravioli, lamb ragout, and apple strudel made with fresh ingredients from the restaurant’s garden. You’ll enjoy taking in the amazing view while enjoying a sweet pastry.

Gardenacia Hütte

Gardenacia Hütte is located in the Parco Naturale Puez Odle, an Italian nature preserve with breathtaking views. The interior is cozy and welcoming, meant to make you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. The restaurant serves traditional dishes like barley soup with “turtres”, creamy polenta with mushrooms, and plenty of Kaiserschmarrn. Gardenacia Hütte uses only locally sourced ingredients.

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